I wrote on the same topic in Jan 2011, on the depressing phenomenon of child abuse in our country. Has anything at all changed for the better since then? Things have only become worse, and the crime seems to be increasing at an alarming rate.
The disturbing fact is that in most cases, it is the care-takers who become the abusers. It is also shameful that extended family members also commit the crime. Children abused by family members keep the secret to themselves out of fear and it is later they tell their friends. Sadly, mothers do all they can to console their children, but precious little to bring it out in the open.
The responsibility of protecting the children lies with the parent first. Parents must remember that it leaves a deep scar on the psychic of a child and has the potential of deeply affecting the children's emotional and mental development. Sexual abuse has immediate as well as long-term effect on the child, from emotional, behavioral and psychological disorders.
Child sexual abuse is one of the most atrocious crimes imaginable - it is an appalling violation of trust, and breach of our commitment and responsibility to protect children.
Parents need to talk to the children openly and educate them about such offenses. Children must be comfortable in speaking to their parents if they are subject to any such offense. When children are encouraged to trust their parents and openly discuss such matters, it is easier to find a solution. Otherwise, it leaves a deep wound in the mind of the child which may never ever fade away.
Not sure how many mothers give this a serious thought. This is like cancer. We always think we will not get the disease, but one fine day discover that we are the victims ourselves
When children come back from school, all we are interested in is asking them about their homework. Our children go to tuition, music classes, and so on. It is very important that parents keep asking the child about the day at the school, and other classes. Warn your little child that they ought not to sit on anyone's lap, no matter what the situation. If they suddenly do not want to continue with the school or other classes, make quick inquiries to see what could be wrong instead of only ridiculing the child. Never force your child to visit any adult he or she is not comfortable with and also be observant if your child becomes too fond of a particular adult.
Once a very active and lively child becomes withdrawn, there could be umpteen reasons. You need to patiently ask them a lot of questions. Blacklist materials/ associates you think could threaten the sanity of your child (this includes music, movies and even friends and families).
In the process of teaching children to be aware of their surroundings, ensure that you do not scare them, lest they start fearing every man and boy they come across.
Once your child complains about a particular person, don't keep quiet about it.
If you come across any child who needs help, please contact Childline www.childlineindia.org. Childline is India's first 24 hour, free, emergency phone outreach service for children in need of care and protection. Dial 1098 to access the service.
There are several books which parents can use as a tool to educate children about child abuse. One is a book titled Good Touch Bad Touch - by Teresa Connor. It helps the reader know the difference between proper and improper touches. Here is the link to the book http://www.amazon.com/Good-Touch-Bad-Learning-Improper/dp/1448689546.
Children have every right to live in a safe and secure environment. Let us do everything possible in our capacity to ensure that their dignity is respected.
Cheers!
The disturbing fact is that in most cases, it is the care-takers who become the abusers. It is also shameful that extended family members also commit the crime. Children abused by family members keep the secret to themselves out of fear and it is later they tell their friends. Sadly, mothers do all they can to console their children, but precious little to bring it out in the open.
The responsibility of protecting the children lies with the parent first. Parents must remember that it leaves a deep scar on the psychic of a child and has the potential of deeply affecting the children's emotional and mental development. Sexual abuse has immediate as well as long-term effect on the child, from emotional, behavioral and psychological disorders.
Child sexual abuse is one of the most atrocious crimes imaginable - it is an appalling violation of trust, and breach of our commitment and responsibility to protect children.
Parents need to talk to the children openly and educate them about such offenses. Children must be comfortable in speaking to their parents if they are subject to any such offense. When children are encouraged to trust their parents and openly discuss such matters, it is easier to find a solution. Otherwise, it leaves a deep wound in the mind of the child which may never ever fade away.
Not sure how many mothers give this a serious thought. This is like cancer. We always think we will not get the disease, but one fine day discover that we are the victims ourselves
When children come back from school, all we are interested in is asking them about their homework. Our children go to tuition, music classes, and so on. It is very important that parents keep asking the child about the day at the school, and other classes. Warn your little child that they ought not to sit on anyone's lap, no matter what the situation. If they suddenly do not want to continue with the school or other classes, make quick inquiries to see what could be wrong instead of only ridiculing the child. Never force your child to visit any adult he or she is not comfortable with and also be observant if your child becomes too fond of a particular adult.
Once a very active and lively child becomes withdrawn, there could be umpteen reasons. You need to patiently ask them a lot of questions. Blacklist materials/ associates you think could threaten the sanity of your child (this includes music, movies and even friends and families).
In the process of teaching children to be aware of their surroundings, ensure that you do not scare them, lest they start fearing every man and boy they come across.
Once your child complains about a particular person, don't keep quiet about it.
If you come across any child who needs help, please contact Childline www.childlineindia.org. Childline is India's first 24 hour, free, emergency phone outreach service for children in need of care and protection. Dial 1098 to access the service.
There are several books which parents can use as a tool to educate children about child abuse. One is a book titled Good Touch Bad Touch - by Teresa Connor. It helps the reader know the difference between proper and improper touches. Here is the link to the book http://www.amazon.com/Good-Touch-Bad-Learning-Improper/dp/1448689546.
Children have every right to live in a safe and secure environment. Let us do everything possible in our capacity to ensure that their dignity is respected.
Cheers!
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